Auto Body Technician

Company: American Classics Restoration

Location: Shop Location Anderson, IN

Job Type: Full-Time

Environment: Specialized Classic & Vintage Automotive Restoration (Not a flat-rate collision repair or modern dealership environment)

Job Overview

American Classics Restoration is seeking a skilled, passionate, and meticulously detail-oriented Auto Body & Restoration Technician to join our team. We specialize in bringing vintage automobiles, muscle cars, and classic trucks back to their former glory through high-quality custom builds, resto-mods, and frame-off restorations.

Unlike standard collision repair, this role requires a true craftsman who blends mechanical knowledge, advanced metal fabrication, and artistic precision. You will be working on a variety of American classic vehicles primarily ranging from the 1950s through the 1990s, taking them from bare metal to a flawless, show-quality finish.

Key Responsibilities

• Disassembly & Organization: Safely disassemble vintage vehicles, carefully documenting, photographing, and labeling all parts, hardware, and trim to ensure accurate reassembly.
• Metalwork & Fabrication: Perform heavy metal straightening, rust repair, panel replacement (patch panels, quarter panels, floors), and structural alignment. Execute high-quality MIG welding (TIG welding is a major plus).
• Body Work & Panel Realignment: Master block-sanding, body filling, and panel gapping to achieve completely straight body lines and flawless surface preparation before paint.
• Custom Modifications & Resto-Mods: Assist with custom fabrication, frame modifications, and the installation of aftermarket performance upgrades (e.g., modern suspension, disc brake conversions, LS swaps, and Procharger systems).
• Component Fitting: Dry-fit all exterior trim, bumpers, glass, and custom components prior to final paint to ensure seamless final assembly.
• Collaboration & Problem Solving: Work closely with the mechanical, electrical, and paint teams to navigate the unique challenges of classic cars, such as poor previous repairs, rare parts sourcing, or ill-fitting aftermarket panels.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum of 3–5 years of professional experience in classic car restoration, custom hot rod building, or advanced structural auto body repair. (Collision-only experience is welcome, but a deep understanding of vintage steel and restoration processes is highly preferred).
• Welding & Metalworking: Proven proficiency in MIG welding and sheet metal fabrication. Experience shrinking, stretching, and shaping metal is highly desired.
• Artistry & Precision: A sharp eye for symmetry, straight body lines, and proper panel gaps.
• Mechanical Aptitude: Basic understanding of classic vehicle mechanics, electrical routing, and disassembly of vintage chassis components.
• Tools: Must possess a comprehensive set of personal hand tools and body-work tools.
• Physical Demands: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for long periods, and perform physical labor typical of a high-end restoration shop.
• Attributes: High self-motivation, patience, a strong work ethic, and a genuine passion for classic American automotive history.

Preferred Qualifications (Bonus Skills)

• Experience with custom paint preparation, airbrushing, or high-end show-quality paint finishes.
• Familiarity with installing Vintage Air conditioning and heating systems.
• Upholstery or interior restoration experience.
• ASE or I-CAR certifications in structural repair or refinishing.

What We Offer

• Pay Structure: Stable pay environment (not a high-stress, flat-rate collision environment).
• Pride in Workmanship: The opportunity to work on unique, long-term, award-winning legacy projects from the ground up.
• Team Environment: A collaborative culture working alongside technicians with decades of combined industry experience.
• Up-to-date shop equipment and a clean, safe working environment.